Thursday, March 31, 2011

New Book on the Church Fathers

Michael Haykin has written a new book that looks to be a helpful and accessible introduction to the Church Fathers. If you want to gain some insight on this important period of the church's history, this book would be a very good starting point.

Here are a few recommendations:

“Haykin has given us a user-friendly introduction to the early centuries of the Christian church. He illustrates the key elements of the church’s teaching by referring to the lives and teachings of major figures of the time, most of whom are little known to nonspecialists. Ordinary people need to know about these things, and this book is a great place to begin.”

-Gerald Bray
, Research Professor of Divinity, Beeson Divinity School

“This gem of a study sparkles with polished clarity. Michael Haykin has skillfully unearthed buried treasures among early church leaders. As an experienced guide, he has drawn from his own personal journey and decades of scholarly research. He presents valuable Patristic insights into apologetic engagement, missional work, spiritual formation, use of Scripture, theological discourse, communal worship, personal piety, and approaches to suffering and martyrdom. From the apostolic fathers to the apostle to Ireland, Haykin’s investigations masterfully apply classical wisdom to contemporary concerns.”

-Paul Hartog
, Associate Professor, Faith Baptist Theological Seminary